Celebrate The Art of Taste
Posted: 4/19/2012
Auburn – It’s time to enjoy an evening of Placer County wine & appetizers amidst original artworks and artist studios at The Arts Building Gallery on April 27.
A tasty offering of Placer County eats catered by Chef Laura Kenny’s Real Food Catering will be paired with a selection of wines from Placer County wineries PaZa, Pescatore, Lone Buffalo and Dono dal Cielo. Laura Kenny and co-author Joanne Neft will be signing and selling copies of their new cookbook The Art of Real Food as well as their first book, Placer County Real Food.
As you taste your way through the evening, enjoy the one-of-a-kind Outside the Box Show & Silent Auction. One hundred deconstructed wooden boxes were issued artists who have worked their magic, turning them into works of art ranging from whimsical to elegant. Come and cast your vote during this event for the Outside the Box “People’s Choice” Award!
The fun starts at 7 pm. Tickets are $20 per person, and include four one-ounce pours, with additional purchase of wine available.
The Arts Building Gallery is located at 808 Lincoln Way in downtown Auburn. Tickets are available at PlacerArts.org. For more information, contact PlacerArts at (530) 885-5670.
PlacerArts is the Arts Council of Placer County, a non-profit, public benefit agency, and the designated state-local partner of the California Arts Council for the County of Placer.
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Golden State Collision Hosts Community Food Drive
Posted: 4/19/2012
Placer County – Golden State Collision Centers, Inc. hosted a community event, in partnership with the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, which benefited The Placer Food Bank at the Golden State Collision Center in Lincoln, 100 Flocchini Circle, on April 11, 2012.
In their first annual benefit for the Placer Food Bank, Golden State Collision Centers and local business members joined together in collecting non-perishable food items, as well as monetary donations, all of which were donated directly to the food bank.
“One of the unfortunate realities of our economic recession is that there are still so many families suffering economically, many of whom are without the means to put food on their tables. After the holiday season has passed, there is a diminished focus on the needs of the people served by the food bank operations. The result is the amount of food on the shelves of the food banks becomes depleted over time,” said Dave Finkelstein, owner of Golden State Collision Centers, Inc. “We are delighted to join with local businesses in an annual food drive, in the hope of filling the cupboards and drawing attention to the vital efforts of Placer Food Bank to meet the needs of our local residents.”
Local sponsors of the event included Nothing Bundt Cakes of Roseville, CA, Scott’s Seafood, Enterprise Holdings, Inc., Mr. Pickle’s Sandwich Shop, Shari’s Berries, and Beyer, Pongratz & Rosen Law Corporation.
A considerable contributor to local athletic organizations, Golden State Collision Centers is also a significant contributor to the Northern California Chapter of Make a Wish Organization, Boy Scouts of America, and Girl Scouts Heart of Central California. Golden State Collision Centers has five locations in the Sacramento area, servicing customers in Roseville, Sacramento, Orangevale, Lincoln and Yuba City.
Source: GSCC
Former Mayor Files Freedom of Information Request
By Todd Stenhouse
Posted: 4/19/2012
Auburn – Former Mayor Gonzales says, “Taxpayers deserve to know how much of their money was spent to keep them in the dark about Measure A” Auburn: Former Auburn Mayor Hank Gonzales has filed a Freedom of Information Act Request with the City of Auburn, asking how much in taxpayer funds were spent on the City’s recent lawsuit against Measure A Opponents (Labrie vs. Board of Supervisors, et al.).
“Taxpayers deserve to know how much of their money was used to keep them in the dark about Measure A, and to try and silence the perfectly valid concerns of four former City Mayors and the County’s leading taxpayer advocate,” Gonzales said. “Ironically, the same City Attorney who brought this frivolous case has already warned that a Charter invites costly litigation---now it’s time to find out just how costly.”
In dismissing the City’s lawsuit, Placer Superior Court Judge Colleen Nichols ruled that Measure A opponents’ contention that Auburn’s proposed Charter would “allow City Council Members to pay themselves thousands of dollars in extra compensation”; “give taxpayer funds away with no strings attached”; and “make (Auburn’s) local government more like San Francisco, Bell, Vernon and Vallejo—where similar proposals opened the door to higher taxes, deep financial deficits, corruption and even bankruptcy”; are neither false nor misleading.
“Even the most basic independent review would have shown the huge loopholes in this hastily crafted Charter, and the potentially disastrous consequences it could invite to our small town,” Gonzales added. “The City not only rejected public calls for such review, it is spending public funds to try and intimidate Measure A opponents and prevent taxpayers from making a fully informed vote. It’s just wrong.”
Distracted Driving Puts Teens at High Risk
Posted: 4/10/2012
Teen girls are twice as likely to use electronic devices while driving, AAA study shows.
Female teens are twice as likely as male teens to use cell phones and other electronic devices while driving, according to a new in-car video study from the AAA Foundation of Traffic Safety. The study also shows that many other potential driving distractions are common and problematic among teenage drivers.
The Foundation study is the first study using in-car video footage to focus on teen distracted driving. Researchers identified the prevalence and consequences of various distracted driver behaviors among teens. They also identified the prevalence and consequences of distracting conditions that teens face. These behaviors and conditions vary based on the presence of passengers, the time of day, the sex of the driver, and other potentially important factors.
“Cell phones, texting, personal grooming, and reaching for items in the car were among the most common distracting activities that the cameras caught inside the cars of new teen drivers,” says Cynthia Harris, AAA Northern California spokesperson. “This new study provides the best view we’ve had about how and when teens engage in distracted driving behaviors, which are believed to contribute to making car crashes the leading cause of teenage deaths.”
The main findings from the report show that gender played a role in some of the observed distractions. Females were nearly twice as likely as males to use an electronic device while driving, and overall, were nearly 10 percent more likely to be seen engaging in other distracted behaviors, like reaching for an object in the vehicle (nearly 50 percent more likely than males) or eating or drinking (nearly 25 percent more likely than males). On the other hand, males were roughly twice as likely to turn around in their seats while driving and were also more likely to communicate with people outside of their vehicle. “Drivers are three times as likely to take their eyes off the road when using electronic devices. They were also two and a half times more likely to look away from the road when engaged in other behaviors.” says Harris. “A second may not seem like much, but at 65 miles per hour a car travels the length of a basketball court in a single second. That extra second can mean the difference between life and death."
Foundation data analysis also found that potentially distracting activities significantly decreased when parents or other adults were present in the car. In contrast, loud conversations and horseplay were more than twice as likely to occur when multiple teen peers, instead of just one, were present. These distractions are particularly concerning, as they are associated with the occurrence of crashes, other serious incidents, and high g-force events. Drivers were six times as likely to have a serious incident when there was loud conversation in the vehicle, and they were more than twice as likely to have a high g-force event when there was horseplay. AAA tips for parents to improve teen drivers’ safety as they start to drive on their own: Practice, practice, practice. Once teens have their actual license, continue to ensure that basic skills are mastered and to introduce varied driving conditions such as snow and heavy traffic rural roads with an experienced driver in the passenger seat.
Keep passengers out. Teen drivers’ crash risks multiply with teenage passengers in the vehicle. Set limits and enforce them consistently.
Limit night driving. Reduced visibility makes night driving riskier for drivers of all ages. For inexperienced teens it’s even harder. Allow new teen drivers to drive at night only if it’s truly necessary for them to practice driving in the dark with a parent.
Keep setting rules. Establish and enforce rules above and beyond state laws. In addition to night and passenger limits, set rules for inclement weather, highways, cities, or other driving conditions in which a teen has not gained enough experience. Find a parent-teen agreement on TeenDriving.aaa.com that can help. The data for this report came from an analysis of video clips collected as part of a three-phase naturalistic study of 50 North Carolina families with novice teen drivers. The first study looked at how parents supervise their teens during the learner’s stage, and the second examined how teen behaviors and driving conditions shift during the transition to unsupervised driving. For the current study, 7,858 clips from the first six months of unsupervised driving were re-analyzed to investigate distraction specifically.
For more information about teen driving visit our website at www.aaa.com/teendriving. AAA Northern California offers a wide array of automotive, travel, insurance, DMV, financial services and consumer discounts to nearly 4 million members. AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers since it was founded more than 100 years ago.
What’s Up With Hiring?
Job demand & hiring trends looking up
Posted: 4/10/2012
Sacramento Region – Hiring motivated by the need to grow workforces in Sacramento will rise above hiring only for replacements for the first time in several years in the Second Quarter of 2012.
In direct contacts by phone with Sacramento’s top regional companies, Pacific Staffing has discovered significant indications of economic improvement as seventy-one percent (71%) of employers say they are hiring in April, May and June 2012. For the first time in years, forty-two percent (42%) of planned hiring was motivated by the need to grow existing workforces. While just thirty-eight percent (38%) of Sacramento regional employers, polled directly between February 27th and March 17th, attributed hiring needs to attrition, or replacements within their existing workforces. Hiring attributed to growth demands has trended up for three Quarters in a row among Sacramento employers surveyed.
Warmer temperatures are also heating up hiring demand as Sacramento’s regional agriculture, recreation and hospitality companies begin seasonal hiring. Ten percent of hiring demand in the second quarter is attributed to seasonal change. While most of the regional economy is improving, some of those involved in residential construction, property development and some peripheral industries remain slow. Three percent of those surveyed report they will consider reducing workforces in the next three months as business remains slow for their individual companies.
Sacramento’s employment marketplace is warming back to life but recent strong spikes in gasoline costs were of great concern to those polled. In anecdotal conversations with company contacts, higher transportation costs for employees; and increased company transportation and petroleum related products costs could throw cold water on hiring plans quickly forcing a renewed slowdown.
While companies are getting a large number of applicants, many are noting the first problems in selecting specific qualifications. Finding applicants with specific skills are among first concerns as companies seek customer service, sales, technical, general office, manufacturing and warehouse workers in the next three months.
How does this Quarter compare to last Quarter, or last year? Find out for yourself.
For more information, employment blogs & market surveys go to www.pacificstaffing.com.
Source: Pacific Trends Quarterly
Snow Survey Shows Dry Conditions
Posted: 4/10/2012
SACRAMENTO – Department of Water Resources (DWR) hydrologists today announced that water content in California’s mountain snowpack is only 55 percent of the April 1 full season average. “An unusually wet March improved conditions, but did not make up for the previous dry months,” said DWR Director Mark Cowin. “The take-home message is that we’ve had a dry winter and although good reservoir storage will lessen impacts this summer, we need to be prepared for a potentially dry 2013.”
Snowpack water content is measured both manually on or near the first of the month from January to May, and in real-time by electronic sensors. This month’s survey and electronic readings are considered the most important of the year, since early April is when the state’s snowpack normally is at its peak before it begins to melt into streams, reservoirs and aquifers in the spring and summer months. The mountain snowpack normally provides about a third of the water for California’s households, industry and farms.
Electronic readings indicate that water content in the northern mountains is 78 percent of the April 1 seasonal average. Electronic readings for the central Sierra show 51 percent of the April 1 average. The number for the southern Sierra is 39 percent. The statewide number is 55 percent.
On April 1 last year, snowpack water content readings were 173 percent of the April 1 average in the northern mountains, 161 percent in the central ranges, 155 percent in the south, and 163 percent statewide.
California has above average reservoir storage as summer approaches thanks to runoff from last winter’s storms.
DWR estimates it will be able to deliver 50 percent of the slightly more than 4 million acre-feet of State Water Project (SWP) water requested this year by the 29 public agencies that supply more than 25 million Californians and nearly a million acres of irrigated farmland. An acre-foot is 325,851 gallons of water, enough to cover one acre to a depth of one foot.
A 50 percent allocation is not severely low. Wet conditions last year allowed the State Water Project to deliver 80 percent of the slightly more than 4 million acre-feet requested for calendar year 2011. The final allocation was 50 percent in 2010, 40 percent in 2009, 35 percent in 2008, and 60 percent in 2007. The last 100 percent allocation — difficult to achieve even in wet years due to pumping restrictions to protect threatened and endangered fish — was in 2006.
See DWR’s new Water Conditions page at: www.water.ca.gov/waterconditions.
The Department of Water Resources operates and maintains the State Water Project, provides dam safety and floodcontrol and inspection services, assists local water districts in water management and water conservation planning,and plans for future statewide water needs.Contact the DWR Public Affairs Office for more information about DWR’s water activities.
Beware of Bogus Refund Schemes
Posted: 3/11/2012
IRS warns of bogus refund schemes abusing popular college tax credit; targets include seniors, working families and church members in California. Sacramento Region – The Internal Revenue Service today warned senior citizens and other taxpayers to beware of an emerging federal tax refund scam tempting victims to file tax returns claiming fraudulent refunds. Bogus refund claims have been identified from California and at least five other states, including Georgia, Michigan, Louisiana, Alabama and Indiana.
These schemes carry a common theme of promising refunds to people who have little or no income, and are normally not required to file a federal income tax return. Promoters falsely claim they can obtain a tax refund or nonexistent stimulus payment for their victims based on the American Opportunity Tax Credit, even if the victim was not enrolled in or paying for college.
Typically, con artists falsely claim that refunds are available even if the victim never went to college, or attended decades ago. In many cases, scammers are targeting seniors, people with very low incomes and members of church congregations with false promises of free money.
“Most of these scams involve promoters who prey upon people in need, building false hopes. When victims’ claims are rejected, their money and the promoters are long gone,” said IRS spokesperson David Tucker. “We want to warn the public to be on guard and stop this new scheme before more innocent people are victimized,” Tucker added.
The IRS has already detected and stopped thousands of these bogus refund claims in recent weeks. The agency is actively investigating the sources of this scheme, and its promoters can be subject to criminal prosecution.
These schemes can be quite costly for victims as promoters may charge exorbitant upfront fees to file their claim. Some promoters of these scams have charged victims $500 for a bogus $1,000 credit. All taxpayers, including those who use paid tax preparers, are legally responsible for the accuracy of their returns, and must repay any refunds received in error, plus any interest and applicable penalties. Those who intentionally try to defraud the government may face criminal prosecution.
Taxpayers should beware of any of the following to avoid becoming ensnared in these schemes:
- Fictitious claims for refunds or rebates based on false statements of entitlement to tax credits.
- Unfamiliar for-profit tax services selling refund and credit schemes to the membership of local churches.
- Internet solicitations that direct individuals to toll-free numbers and then solicit social security numbers.
- Homemade flyers and brochures implying credits or refunds are available without proof of eligibility.
- Offers of free money with no documentation required.
- Promises of refunds for “Low Income – No Documents Tax Returns.”
- Claims for the expired Economic Recovery Credit Program or for economic stimulus payments.
- Unsolicited offers to prepare a return and split the refund.
- Unfamiliar return preparation firms soliciting business from cities outside of the normal business or commuting area.
These refund schemes feature many of the warning signs IRS cautions taxpayers to watch for when choosing a tax preparer.
For advice on choosing a competent tax professional, see Tips for Choosing a Tax Return Preparer on IRS.gov. To get the facts on tax benefits related to education, go to the Tax Benefits for Education Information Center on IRS.gov.
Source: IRS
Celebrity Chefs Serve Auburn: No One Went Home Hungry
By Paula Mosqueda
Posted: 3/11/2012
Carolyn Metzker and a Sugar Plump Fairy. Auburn – The 26th annual Celebrity Chefs Cooking for Community Service event recently took place in the Placer Building of the Auburn Gold Country Fairgrounds. Every year, this event brings areas cooks together with anyone who likes to sample various culinary creations. The Auburn 49er Lions Club hosts this savory smorgasbord to benefit other non-profit organizations and, by extension, the local community. This year’s recipient group is the local Forgotten Soldier Program.
Donna Arz, head of the Forgotten Soldier Program, had this to say about the evening, “This was the most incredible event I have been to in a long time. The people were so vivacious and loving. Everyone joined together for service, given from the heart. Everything was wonderful, from the bread pudding to the beef brisket.”
It is impossible to list all the supporters of this event. Cooks come from near and not-so-near. There were chefs from the Auburn City Council, ARD, the Auburn Police Dept., Bel Air-Raley’s, Kiwanis, Bootleggers, Sugar Plump Fairies, Sutter Auburn Faith, and some ninety more.
Those in attendance were happy to sample tri-tip, truffles, Oahu friend rice, Maki meatballs, lemon bars, Placer Farm Supply beans, shrimp, Gimmie Cake Too! cupcakes, meatloaf, chili, teriyaki chicken, brownies ala mode, and more. There was something for everyone.
Once again, Doctor Bach and his Jazz Practitioners provided the music. An assortment of raffle prizes tempted many to test their good fortune.
It takes each and every chef and ticket holder to make the Celebrity Chefs Cooking for Community Service event a success. The Auburn 49er Lions and the Forgotten Soldier Program offer a big “Thank you” to all who participated in this year’s event.
We happily invite you to return again in March of 2013. See you then!
For more information about the Auburn 49er Lions, email them at auburn49erlions@gmail.com.
Time to Stand Up and Fight for Our Water
Posted: 3/11/2012
AUBURN – In a move to protect Placer County’s water resources, directors of the Placer County Water Agency on Thursday (Mar. 1) increased their financial support for the Mountain Counties Water Resources Association (MCWRA).
The MCWRA is an advocacy organization that represents the interests of water purveyors and public agencies in an area of California that produces two-thirds of the state’s water supply. The MCWRA includes all or parts of 15 counties.
“It’s the only organization that represents our entire area,” said PCWA District 1 Director Gray Allen, who has also been active with the MCWRA. “We need an active advocate.”
Water leaders in Northern California are increasingly concerned that local water supplies are being eyed to meet growing needs in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta and in Southern California.
In a presentation to the PCWA board, MCWRA Executive Director John Kingsbury said his organization is making good progress in making the Legislature and other parts of the state aware of mountain county water issues.
He said that loss of water to downstream interests could result in economic loss, loss of clean hydroelectric energy production, water supply losses, and impacts to recreation, tourism, wildlife and fisheries in Northern California counties.
Kingsbury was accompanied by Bill George, president of the El Dorado Irrigation District (EID), who also serves as president of the MCWRA. “At this time in our history,” George said, “it is important for us to stand up and fight for our water.”
Directors voted unanimously to support MCWRA’s proposal for enhanced advocacy efforts.
In other business, directors:
- heard a current water supply update from Director of Field Services Mike Nichol, who said the recent storms have improved this year’s water outlook and will be carefully monitored in the weeks ahead. He said normal rain and snow for the rest of the season could result in a two-thirds of average precipitation year. A more in-depth report is expected at the board’s next meeting on Mar. 15.
- voted to market up to 20,000 acre-feet of water from the PCWA Middle Fork American River Project to the Westlands Water District this year. The sale involves American River water that is not needed for PCWA water users and could earn the agency up to $3.5 million if Westlands takes all of the water.
- nominated District 1 Director Gray Allen to continue his service in a four-year term as a Special Districts commissioner on the Placer County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO).
The next regular meeting of the PCWA Board of Directors will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Mar. 15, at the PCWA Business Center, 144 Ferguson Road, in Auburn.
Information on PCWA board meetings may be obtained through the Clerk to the Board at (530) 823-4850 or (800) 464-0030. PCWA information is also posted at www.pcwa.net.
Here Comes $6 Gallon Gasoline!
Posted: 3/11/2012
SACRAMENTO REGION, Average retail gasoline prices in Sacramento have risen 3.5 cents per gallon in the past week, (as of March 5th) averaging $4.24/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has increased 5.2 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.71/g, according to gasoline price website SactoGasPrices.com.
Including the change in gas prices in Sacramento during the past week, prices yesterday were 41.3 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 56.6 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average has increased 27.8 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 24.1 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.
“Gasoline prices have spiked considerably higher in virtually every area over the last two weeks, and while I don’t expect the pace of the recent rise in prices to continue for the entire month, a similar jump may again occur closer to April Fools Day, and it won’t be a funny joke, it’ll be disgusting reality,” said GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan. “The rise in price is so unbelievable that we may have to revise upward our previous gasoline forecast that had called for a national average of between $3.75 to $4.15 by mid-May, as the national average already stands at nearly $3.72/gallon,” DeHaan said.
Source: GasBuddy operates SactoGasPrices.com.
Reunite, Reconnect and Rebuild
Posted: 3/8/2012
American Red Cross helps military families from the area to reunite, reconnect and rebuild after deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian Goodwin/Released) SACRAMENTO Region – The Capital Region Chapter of the American Red Cross is offering Reconnection Workshops, courses designed to help ease the transition after military deployment.
Four facilitated sessions will be offered to focus on skills building to enhance the likelihood of positive reconnections with armed forces personnel and their families following a military deployment.
“Deployments are a fact of life in the military,” said Trisha Johnson, emergency services manager. “Whether a service member’s absence is due to a training exercise, sea duty, combat, or unaccompanied duty in a remote location, separation and reunification pose unique opportunities as well as challenges for all family members. The American Red Cross, with support from Walmart, developed a series of workshops to assist all military families in managing the family’s readjustment to the service member’s return.”
Actively licensed and specially trained Red Cross mental health professionals lead participants through information and discussions designed to help them identify and respond to the challenges of readjusting to and transitioning back to a changed family dynamic.
The workshops are targeted to service members and their spouses, children, parents, siblings and significant others. Topics include Communicating Clearly, Exploring Stress and Trauma, Relating to Children, and Working Through Anger. Participants have the option of choosing any or all of the workshops.
The workshops will be presented by Walmart, on March 3 and March 24 at the Sacramento office, located at 1565 Exposition Boulevard.
Each workshop is approximately 2 hours in length. Participants can take them in any order and select those most applicable to their situation. Workshops are free to military members and their families and occur in a supportive and confidential environment.
For more information about the current workshop being offered or to register for future workshops go to www.redcrosscrc.org or contact Samantha Clark at (916) 993-7087 or clarksam@usa.redcross.org.
Placer County Sheriff Hosts National Night Out
Posted: 3/8/2012
Picture above, from left to right, are PCSO personnel who helped make National Night Out 2011 an award-winning success: Community Services Officer Lynn Harrison, Deputy Victoria Skellenger, CSO Shannon Herdegen, Lt. Wayne Woo, Undersheriff Devon Bell, CSO Amanda Rogers, Sgt. Rob Dellinger and CSO Kim Rivera. Photo by Dena Erwin, PIO Placer County – For the third year in a row, the Placer County Sheriff’s Office has been honored for hosting one of the best National Night Out events in the U.S. in 2011, placing thirteenth, just behind much larger jurisdictions like Los Angeles County and Houston, Texas.
National Night Out is celebrated annually on the first Tuesday of August, when first-responders caravan in emergency vehicles to dozens of Placer County neighborhoods. They visit established Neighborhood Watch groups, which hold ice cream socials, barbecues and all sorts of get-togethers. In 2011, more than 37 million people in 15,325 communities across the U.S. participated.
Dedicated members of all the Neighborhood Watch groups in Placer County are given credit for the department’s win.
“The commitment these neighbors have shown by taking control of their neighborhoods and watching out for each other is the reason we earned national recognition again,” said Sheriff Ed Bonner.
Neighborhoods interested in creating a Neighborhood Watch group are encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at (530) 889-7800.
Celebrity Chefs—Cookin’ for the Community
By Paula Mosqueda
Posted: 3/8/2012
Jim Ryan and Joe Rawson from the Auburn Host Lions. Auburn – Twenty-six years ago, the Celebrity Chefs Event came into being. It started as a fundraiser for local candidates running for office. Now hosted by the Auburn 49er Lions Club, this event has evolved into a fundraiser for local non-profit organizations who use these funds to benefit the residents of the Auburn area.
In early March, scores of area cooks come together and offer samples of their favorite culinary creations. The variety of foods is wonderful and the aromas are delightful. There are tasty appetizers, salads, entrees and desserts to tempt everyone.
A “Celebrity Chef” can be anyone who likes to cook and is willing to share his/her delicious cooking or baking talents with the world. Restaurant owners, business owners, city officials, and individuals from all walks of life sign up to participate in the evening’s festivities. There are always “new” chefs joining in for the first time, and some “old” chefs who have participated every year for 26 years. Everyone is welcome.
This year, the Celebrity Chefs Cooking for Community Service event will take place on March 1, 2012, in the Placer Building of the Gold Country Fairgrounds, from 5:30-8 p.m. The local Forgotten Soldier Program was selected to receive the proceeds of this year’s event. This program promotes the social, spiritual, and emotional well being of veterans and helps returning members of the military return to civilian life.
If you would like to sign up and become a Celebrity Chef, or if you have questions about the event, feel free to call Paula at 530-863-7503.
Tickets for the Celebrity Chef events are being sold at the following Auburn locations: Golden Swann Jewelers, 881 Lincoln Way, Marybelle’s Restaurant, 1590 Lincoln Way, Sun River Clothing, 1585 Lincoln Way, Chamber of Commerce, 601 Lincoln Way, Auburn Justice Center–Probation Dept ( see LindaLee) 2929 Richardson Dr., Healing Light Institute-the Forgotten Solder, 991 Lincoln Way (Mon-Thurs). Tickets may also be purchased at the door. The cost is $15 per ticket.
If you like to cook or bake, or if you just like to eat, or both, the Celebrity Chefs event is a dream come true. You will want to be there. There will be live music, raffles, fun, and lots of great food. The Auburn 49er Lions Club and the Forgotten Soldier Program will be glad you came, and so will you.
For more information about the activities about the Auburn 49er Lions Club, contact them at auburn49erlions@gmail.com.
Grange Supports GMO Labeling for November Ballot
Posted: 3/8/2012
Thousands of volunteers are now fanning out state-wide to launch a petition drive to get the California Right to Know Genetically Engineered Food Act on the ballot in November. In the thick of the grass-roots initiative is the California State Grange, one of the leading partners in the effort.
The California State Grange has long supported the idea that GMOs (genetically modified organisms) in the food supply should be adequately tested and that consumers are entitled to know what’s in food they eat. The American people agree. Yet despite overwhelming support for GMO labeling, for over a decade regulators and legislators at the national and state level have largely ignored public concerns.
That’s why the Committee for the Right to Know is taking the issue directly to the voters of California. Now, with petitions in hand, over 1,500 volunteers will be gathering signatures at stores and farmers markets up and down the state.
“The bottom line is Californians have a right to know what’s in the food we eat and feed our children. It’s time to send a strong, direct message to those who govern us, whether they be agency or elected, that we want genetically engineered foods labeled,” says Pamm Larry, founder of the Committee For the Right to Know.
Check the website, www.labelgmos.org for more information on this issue.
Senior Peer Counseling
Posted: 3/8/2012
Placer County Senior Peer Counseling provides volunteer counselors to assist Placer County residents, age 55 and above who are experiencing grief, depression, family conflicts, substance abuse, loss of independence, caregiver stress and physical disability. The counseling is confidential, free and provided in the home.
Counselors are available in Auburn area, Rocklin, Roseville, and Lincoln.
Contact Tom Drake, LCSW (530) 886-3413.
Veterans Go from Serving the Nation to Building Energy Conservation
Posted: 2/8/2012
Alexandra Warner does wire stripping for installing an exterior light. Photo courtesy of CCC Placer County – Veterans who served as medics, ammunition specialists and security forces are transitioning to civilian employment as the result of a Sierra College Center for Applied Competitive Technologies (CACT) and California Conservation Corps (CCC) partnership. Nine veterans who are on the CCC crew will be awarded Energy Technology and Lighting Systems Completion Certificates from Sierra College CACT (www.sierracollegetraining.com).
The graduation will be held at the CCC Placer Energy Center at 3710 Christian Valley Road in Auburn at 1:00 PM on Friday, January 20. (The ceremony includes presentations from some of the graduates and they will be available for interviews after the ceremony.) The Energy Technology and Lighting Systems training program developed by Sierra College CACT covers energy systems, electricity, lighting, photovoltaic systems, energy efficiency retrofits and safety.
After graduation, they’ll work on the only CCC Veterans crew in the state focused on energy efficiency. Rod Thornhill, center director, CCC Sacramento & Placer, explained that the CCC has a contract agreement with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). “The graduates will do energy lighting retrofits and maintenance throughout DMV’s many offices in the state,” said Thornhill. Through this work, crew members will gain valuable field experience that is the conduit to highly paid, in-demand local careers.
The Sierra College CACT will also provide coaching in resume development, interview skills and job search techniques. Putting discharged veterans to work is the goal of the program, partially funded by the California State Assembly Speaker’s Office according to David Muraki, CCC director. “The training provided by Sierra College CACT, together with the hands-on experience the veterans will get installing energy conservation measures at DMV offices, will give them skills needed to qualify for a good job after the CCC,” said Muraki.
Alexandra Warner served in the Army for nearly two years, specializing in ammunitions and special explosives, based in Fort Hood, Texas. Her interest in joining the CCC resulted in discovering the Energy Technology and Lighting Systems program at the CCC’s Placer Energy Center. “I didn’t know anything about electricity but I was intrigued by solar energy,” said Warner. “This program is much more than I expected and now I have a passion for learning about energy systems, especially solar, and how people can save money.” Warner also says that as a woman she has no problem keeping up with the men in the class. “This course covers the basics with hands-on practice, so I’d tell others, don’t hesitate about trying it. If you make a mistake while installing electrical wiring and lighting systems in the lab, you learn from it and will be confident doing the work correctly on the job site,” said Warner.
According to Brian Hurd, CACT instructor and president of Hands On Solar Inc., who is co-teaching the class with Aaron Fry of the CCC, the Corps members in this program are gaining skills that prepare them for employment. “Manufacturers, utilities, solar installers, electricians and contractors would benefit from hiring these veterans for entry level electrical repair, maintenance, retrofit and construction positions,” said Hurd.
“Their military experience makes them ideal employees as they know how to work as a team, arrive on time, show respect, take instruction and complete the mission.”
Isaac Hall served three years in security forces, stationed at Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota, and says that this program is a great opportunity for him. “I’m getting paid to learn and get practical experience through the CCC,” said Hall. “I love what I’m doing and am really glad to be in this program. The teacher is great, the class size is small so you get the attention you need and I like the hands-on lab where you do work like you’d do on the job site. Now I’m looking at the possibility of a career as an electrician.”
For three years, Eric Juhnke was a medic in the Army deployed to Iraq before joining the CCC. He says that he is excited about working in alternative energy. “I have a passion for solar energy and want to help the world move forward in using renewable energy,” said Juhnke. “I’m excited to get into the energy efficiency field just as it is taking off.”
Carol Pepper-Kittredge, director, Sierra College CACT, explained that the partnership with CCC benefits the regional economy. “This program puts veterans to work while they gain electrical skills that are transferable to a variety of careers,” said Pepper-Kittredge. “Businesses become more competitive by employing these skilled Corps members who’ve acquired practical experience through this program. Energy costs are also reduced by retrofitting buildings to make them more efficient.”
The Sierra College CACT is funded through the Economic and Workforce Development program of the California Community College Chancellor’s Office.
Since 1992, the Sierra College CACT has provided training for organizations, manufacturers and technology companies throughout Northern California. Additional information is available at sierracollegetraining.com or contact Carol Pepper-Kittredge at (916) 660-7517 or cpepper-kittredge@sierracollege.edu. Contact the CCC at www.ccc.ca.gov.
Source: Karen Fraser-Middleton, marketingaction.com
App Lets Customers Provide Private Feedback to Local Businesses
Posted: 2/8/2012
SACRAMENTO – Sacramento residents weary of writing public online reviews can provide private, anonymous and immediate feedback to local businesses through the new free Sacramento-based iSuggest app. iSuggest is a Sacramento mobile technology startup company that gives customers a voice while providing tools for businesses to improve customer satisfaction.
“Often people want to provide suggestions to local businesses without risking the company’s reputation by writing a public review,” said Matt Brickley, iSuggest marketing director. “iSuggest gives them the chance to communicate directly with the manager or business owner right away without tracking someone down in person or searching for an online contact form.”
Customers visit iSuggest.com or download iSuggest for free from their app market. When the app is launched, customers see all nearby businesses or can search for businesses in other locations. After a suggestion is written, it is delivered instantly and privately to the manager or owner. Businesses can then respond to customers and offer rewards for helpful feedback. The basic iSuggest service is free for all businesses, but a Pro Plan upgrade will soon be available to businesses looking for additional tools such as customer rewards and analytics.
“This is a win-win,” Brickley said. “Customers have the chance to share their brilliant ideas, and businesses can correct errors or implement new ideas before negative public reviews hit the web. The result benefits the entire community.”
iSuggest can provide feedback to any business, but many local businesses have signed up to promote their desire to receive feedback, including De Vere’s Irish Pub, Hot Italian, Sterling Hotel, Sacramento Comedy Spot and Mike’s Bikes of Sacramento. Businesses receive iSuggest’s green “We Heart Feedback” stickers, bill inserts, table tents and more, and can manage their online suggestions and provide incentives through a control panel. To sign up as an iSuggest partner, visit www.isuggest.com or call (888) 907-2054.
iSuggest was created by Sacramento entrepreneurs Cory Robertson, Mike Machado and Matt Brickley when they noticed physical suggestion boxes were dwindling while at the same time, online review sites were lacking privacy, timeliness and direct communication. iSuggest provides a virtual suggestion box that allows customers to provide anonymous, private and immediate feedback through their mobile devices directly to management. iSuggest gives customers and businesses the chance to communicate privately and make changes that benefit the community as a whole.
For more information, visit www.isuggest.com.
Placer County Sheriff Community Awareness Academy Begins
Posted: 2/8/2012
Placer County – It’s time to sign up for the Placer County Sheriff Office’s popular Community Awareness Academy, which offers an inside look at the law enforcement agency.
Attendees are asked to attend all eight classes, each of which covers a different topic.
Classes are held Monday and Wednesday evenings, beginning March 5 and ending March 28. Participants will hear from members of the department’s special units and take “field trips” to the Placer County Jail and morgue, 911 dispatch center, as well as the air operations hangar.
Classes will be held in the Community Room at the Placer County Sheriff headquarters in the Auburn Justice Center. The center is located at 2929 Richardson. Drive in north Auburn’s Dewitt Center. Classes are scheduled from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The academy will kick off with a welcome by top sheriff’s administrators and an overview of how the department works.
On subsequent nights, presentations will be made by air operations, Search and Rescue, the bomb squad, the Special Enforcement Team, the marine unit, investigations, hostage negotiators and the drug task force. There will also be a demonstration by members of the K-9 team.
The academy is intended to provide the citizens of Placer County with an overview of the Sheriff Office’s functions, policies and procedures, as well as getting them involved in their community. The goal of the academy is to provide a greater awareness and understanding of law enforcement’s role in the community. Attendees must be at least 18 years of age.
A reservation is required. To reserve a spot, call Community Services Officer Kim Rivera at (530) 889-6922 or e-mail her at krivera@placer.ca.gov.
New Year, New Motor Laws
Posted: 1/19/2012
Motorists need to know that many new laws came into effect January 1st in California. As we begin a new year, California motorists should be aware of some of the new laws going into effect this past January 1, 2012. These new traffic laws were passed by the Legislature and signed by the Governor earlier in 2011, and the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is asking the motoring public to familiarize themselves with the changes before they take effect.
“Our hope is by educating the public of these new traffic safety laws in advance, more lives will be saved in the new year,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow.
The following are highlights of a few of the significant changes for the upcoming year:
- A change to California’s Child Passenger Safety Seat law will now require children to ride in either a car seat or booster seat until the age of eight, or until they reach a height of 4 feet 9 inches. This law also requires children who do not meet the age or height requirement to ride in the rear seat of a vehicle unless the vehicle has no back seats, the restraint system cannot be properly installed or the rear seats are already occupied by children under age eight. However, the law still maintains that a child may not ride in the front seat of a vehicle with an active passenger airbag if they are under one year of age, less than 20 pounds, or riding in a rear-facing child safety seat. (SB 929, Evans)
- Drivers are required to stop and submit to a sobriety checkpoint. However, peace officers will be prohibited from impounding a vehicle for 30 days out of a sobriety checkpoint if the only offense by the driver is failing to hold a valid driver license. The new law requires that the officer make a reasonable attempt to identify the registered owner in order to release the ehicle. (AB 353, Cedillo)
- Anyone who is convicted of reckless driving under Section 23103.5 of the Vehicle Code can apply for a restricted driver license prior to the completion of their one-year suspension, provided they meet specified conditions, including the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device in their vehicle. (AB 520, Ammiano)
- Vehicles will be prohibited from crossing double parallel solid white lines except where permitted. (AB 1105, Gordon)
- Electric Vehicles (EV) must now be plugged in for refueling when occupying an EVdesignated parking space, otherwise they may be towed. In addition, the law prohibits a person from obstructing, blocking, or otherwise barring access to an EV-designated parking space. (AB 475, Butler)
- Local governments can now regulate advertising signs on any motor vehicle parked or left standing upon a public street, except for signs painted directly upon or permanently affixed to the vehicle for permanent decoration, identification, or display that do not extend beyond the overall length, width, or height of the vehicle. (AB 1298, Blumenfield)
- A law dealing with repeat driving under the influence (DUI) offenders that was passed in 2010 also goes into effect on January 1:
- Section 23579 was added to the Vehicle Code, which authorizes courts to revoke a driver’s license for 10 years if a person is convicted of three or more DUIs. Under this law enacted in 2010, a motorist may be allowed to apply for reinstatement of his or her driver’s license with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) after five years, if the person installs an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in their vehicle. The law allows the DMV to terminate this restricted license if the IID requirements are not met. (AB 1601, Hill)
The points above are only a synopsis of the new laws listed here and only a partial list of California’s new laws adopted for 2012. For complete information on chaptered bills enacted in 2011, please refer to the Legislative Counsel website at www.LegInfo.ca.gov.
Source: CHP
Placer County Vintners Collect Christmas Toys for Local Kids
Posted: 1/4/2012
Owner/Winemaker Phil Maddux pouring some of his best wines for Holidays in the Hills patron in the Lone Buffalo Vineyards tasting room. Auburn – Just in time for Christmas, Placer County Vintners Association (PCVA) wineries presented twenty-five “Santa-sized” Toys for Tots collection boxes with over 1,000 lbs of brand new toys to the South Placer Chapter of Marine Toys for Tots. The toys were donated by community members during the annual Holidays in the Hills wine tasting and toy drive that took place on the Placer County Wine Trail on December 10 & 11, 2011.
Several hundred wine enthusiasts from the Bay Area to Sacramento and Reno attended the event. In addition to the toy drive, event highlights included holiday decorations, tastings, tours, barrel samples, food and wine pairings and local crafts and food vendors. Wineries waived tasting fees for the weekend for guests who brought a new, unwrapped toy to the event.
This is the second time the Association has hosted this event. Last year, six wineries participated and collected over 400 lbs. of toys. This year, seventeen wineries joined in and the amount of toys collected multiplied exponentially. The toys will be distributed by local military veteran volunteers for Marine Toys for Tots to children and families throughout Placer County.
“It is amazing how generous visitors were with the toy donations,” said Vicky Morris of Secret Ravine Vineyards in Loomis. “Many folks also donated cash too – this is our first year participating and it was really a great way for the wineries and the community to come together this holiday season!”
Participating Wineries: Bonitata Boutique Wines • Casque Wines • Cante Ao Vinho • Ciotti Cellars • Cristaldi Vineyards • Dono dal Cielo Vineyard & Winery • Fawnridge Winery • Fortezza • Green Family Winery • Lone Buffalo Vineyards • Mt. Vernon Winery • PaZa • Popie Wines • Rancho Roble Vineyards • Secret Ravine Vineyard & Winery • Viña Castellano • Wise Villa Winery
The Placer County Vintners Association is a non-profit association formed to provide a forum for Placer County wineries to collaborate on events and programs that support the local communities, develop marketing programs to raise awareness of the Placer County wine region, and to share best practices to encourage all wineries to be the best they can and provide a high quality experience for winery visitors.
For more information and maps, visit www.placerwine.com or call (916) 663-4486.
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Placer County Fair Names New GM
Posted: 1/4/2012
New Placer County Fair General Manager John Javidan. Placer County – John Javidan has accepted the General Manager position at the Placer County Fair Association and will coordinate, promote and manage the Placer County Fair and Events Center. He will also be working with the new Speedway manager Jeff Munro to help promote the All American Speedway.
Javidan will continue to coordinate and promote Roseville’s Downtown Tuesday Nights every Tuesday in May, June and July beginning on May 1, 2012 through Johny 5 Productions.
Javidan will also continue to coordinate BerryFest on Mothers Day Weekend May 12 and 13, 2012, though during his employment at PCF the event will be coordinated through the Placer County Fair and Events Center office in Roseville.
The Placer County Fair will be held from June 21st through the 24, 2012 in Roseville.
Mr. Javidan envisions a traditional Fair with all the agriculture and contests the fair has offered in the past. He plans on lowering the cost to vendors to bring a better shopping experience. The new vision includes booking all local entertainment and acts.
The Fair admission for this year will be $5 General Admission and $3 for children and seniors.
For more information see www.PlacerCountyFair.org.
Gas Prices Start 2012 with Jump
Posted: 1/4/2012
Sacramento Region – Average retail gasoline prices in Sacramento have risen 6.2 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $3.53/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has increased 2.4 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.25/g, according to gasoline price website www.SactoGasPrices.com.
Including the change in gas prices in Sacramento during the past week, prices yesterday were 27.7 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 2.5 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 4.1 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 20.9 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.
“Average gasoline prices are moving up as we enter the New Year, a trend that has held since 2008,” said GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan. “The biggest problem with that trend holding true this year is that we’re starting 2012 about 20-cents per gallon higher than 2011, breaking yet another high price record and setting up an ugly year for motorists,” DeHaan said.
Early indications show this year may see the highest ever recorded prices at the pump, with real potentials for some areas to see close to $5/gal gasoline if conflict arises in Iran over several key issues.
GasBuddy.com operates over 250 live gasoline price-tracking websites, including SactoGasPrices.com.
Carpe Vino on OpenTable’s Top 100 Restaurant List
Posted: 12/22/2011
Auburn’s Carpe Vino gets a great Christmas gift – being placed on OpenTables top 100 Resturant List. AUBURN – What do world class restaurants Le Bernardin and Per Se in New York; The French Laundry and The Kitchen in northern California; and Mama’s Fish House in Maui have in common with Auburn’s Carpe Vino? All have been named to OpenTable’s Diner’s Choice list of 2011’s Top 100 Restaurants. A nationwide reservations network for 12,000 fine dining restaurants around the country, OpenTable’s list was based on more than 10 million reviews penned by diners around the country.
“We were absolutely blown away back in October when we were named to OpenTable’s Top 50 Restaurant Wine Lists for 2011,” said Carpe Vino’s co-owner, Gary Moffat. “But to be recognized with so many legendary restaurants around the country is one helluva Christmas present.”
Carpe Vino was one of only four restaurants to be named to both lists. Addison at the Grand Del Mar in San Diego also ranked tops in both food and wine, as did two restaurants in North Carolina.
“Of course it makes no sense for a 32-seat restaurant in a town of 13,000 people on the edge of civilization to be recognized in the same breath with restaurants operated by the likes of Thomas Keller, but the people have spoken,” Moffat said. “In the five years we’ve been open, I’ve heard it hundreds of times from people who appreciate fine food and wine… ‘Carpe Vino is a good as any place we’ve ever dined…anywhere.’ And now I believe them.”
Although Carpe Vino has been in business for nearly 10 years—opening in 2002 as a wine shop and wine bar—the restaurant has been serving since 2006. The same core staff is still in place: Chef Eric Alexander, trained at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY; Drew Moffat, co-owner and general manager; and Ada Campos-Sutcliffe, also CIA-trained and responsible for the front of the house.
“Eric is a remarkably inventive chef who has consistently executed creative menus exploiting the fabulous resources we have in Placer County and beyond,” Moffat said. “He has a sensitivity toward and understanding of everything about running a kitchen that have led to this recognition. He inspires everyone in the building.”
Carpe Vino’s core business is selling wine, and that’s part of the draw for so many people who make the trip to Auburn. “Even though he is only 30, my son, Drew, has an incredible palate,” Moffat said. “In my opinion he’s a superstar, and he’s taken our business to a level that is competitive with any of the big boys.”
While the restaurant has many local fans, it draws foodies up the hill from all around the Sacramento region. “I’ve always said that if we could pick up Carpe Vino and move it to a metro area, we’d have a line around the block every night,” Moffat said. “The double recognition from OpenTable can only help drive more people to Old Town Auburn, and that’s a good thing for everyone.”
Carpe Vino is located at 1568 Lincoln Way in Auburn. The restaurant is open Wednesday through Saturday starting at 5 p.m. Wine can be purchased and dinner reservations made online at www.caprevinoauburn.com, by calling (530) 823-0320 or by visiting www.opentable.com.
Post Office to Change Service
Posted: 12/8/2011
Tough times mean tough changes for the US Postal Service. USPS photo. The U.S. Postal Service announced December 5th it will move forward with its proposal to change service standards. This action is being taken in response to on-going financial challenges caused by the dramatic and continual decline in First-Class Mail volume and the resulting revenue loss.
“The U.S. Postal Service must reduce its operating costs by $20 billion by 2015 in order to return to profitability,” said David Williams, vice president, Network Operations. “The proposed changes to service standards will allow for significant consolidation of the postal network in terms of facilities, processing equipment, vehicles and employee workforce and will generate projected net annual savings of approximately $2.1 billion.” This is part of the overall savings expected from the network optimization initiative, which is projected to save up to $3 billion by 2015.
The size of the existing Postal Service network is dictated by the current overnight transit time in existing service standards. The Postal Service is 3 day−proposing, through the rulemaking process, to move First-Class Mail to a 2 standard for contiguous U.S. destinations; however, there would be an opportunity for mailers who properly prepare and enter mail at the destinating processing facility prior to the day's critical entry time to have their mail delivered the following delivery day.
On Sep. 15, the Postal Service announced it would begin studying 252 out of 487 mail processing facilities for possible closure. At that time, the Postal Service also announced it would be considering changes to service standards in an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking published in the Federal Register. The Advance Notice filing was a formal effort to gather input from the public early in the process to ensure their views can be factored into the service change proposal.
The Postal Service will send to the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) a request for an advisory opinion regarding service standard changes associated with a significant rationalization of its mail processing network. Shortly thereafter, the Postal Service will publish a notice in the Federal Register soliciting public comment on the specific proposed changes.
The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.
Source: USPS.com
Donation Drive Collects Winter Coats
Posted: 12/8/2011
 Over 3,100 coats were collected last year for One Warm Coat. SACRAMENTO Region — More than 3,000 people and children in need throughout the Sacramento region can now count on new, warm coats to get through the coming winter, thanks to an all-out effort by Lyon Real Estate agents.
Working with the national nonprofit One Warm Coat, Lyon’s regional team of agents, brokers and support staff threw themselves into a month-long winter coat donation drive during October. Given their busy schedules, many in the company expected to hit the 500 mark. But when you have 17 regional offices full of dedicated, creative professionals, then stand back.
“When we added up coats collected from everyone’s efforts, from offices in the Foothills to agents based throughout the Sacramento region, it came to a whopping 3,110 coats,” said Lyon Real Estate President Pat Shea. “It was an amazing example of how a large group of people can achieve a great amount of good by working together.”
The coat donation drive started out as an idea at Lyon’s annual Fun Realtor Education Day — FRED for short. To supplement the coat drive, Lyon employees partnered with Kohl’s Department stores to obtain 50 new children’s coats for the Kids First organization in Roseville and Auburn and the Sacramento Food Bank’s Mother Baby Program. Those coats, and all the donated coats, had to be either new or lightly used to qualify for donation.
Another truck load of coats were given to Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services. In all, more than 17 agencies received coats collected by Lyon agents and employees that will be distributed to people in need in Sacramento, Placer, Nevada, Sacramento and El Dorado counties.
Before distributing the coats, employees at the company’s Sacramento headquarters converted their administrative offices into storage space for thousands of winter coats.
“We had mountains of them. It really brought home all the hard work our agent team did in reaching out to the community,” said Lyon Marketing Director Christi McDowell, who helped organize the coat donation drive.
This year, we are on pace to collect and distribute our 3 millionth coat — and Lyon’s 3,110 coats made a fantastic contribution to that effort,” said Sybil Hunt, community outreach director for One Warm Coat.
With real estate agents in 17 regional offices in Sacramento, Placer, El Dorado and Yolo counties, Lyon remains the region’s leading real estate company.
NID Recognized for Auburn Ravine Improvement
Posted: 12/8/2011
SARSAS President Jack Sanchez, left, congratulates NID General Manager Ron Nelson on NID’s successful completion of an in-stream improvement project on Auburn Ravine that will open an additional mile of the stream to migrating salmon and steelhead trout. GRASS VALLEY – Leaders of Save Auburn Ravine Salmon and Steelhead (SARSAS) traveled to Grass Valley on November 30 to recognize the Nevada Irrigation District for its work in helping improve fish migration on Auburn Ravine Creek.
SARSUS President Jack Sanchez, Lincoln area steering committee representative Stan Nader and Newcastle consultant John Rabe thanked the NID Board of Directors for its support of the district’s fish passage project on Auburn Ravine in Lincoln.
Rabe called the project “a work of art” and said it will allow fish access to spawning beds along an additional mile-long stretch of the creek.
The NID project has been under way for the past month and is nearing completion. It includes a series of rock chutes and step pools that mimic a natural stream channel. The project eliminates a fish migration barrier at NID’s Auburn Ravine water measurement station.
“We thank the board for your commitment to this project,” said Sanchez, who founded the community group a decade ago with a goal of restoring salmon and steelhead migration in Auburn Ravine.
Sanchez praised the efforts of NID General Manager Ron Nelson and the district engineering staff in planning, coordinating and completing the difficult project, which had to be built during specific stream and weather conditions.
“You should be proud of your staff,” Sanchez said. “They are high quality, professional individuals. We’ve been absolutely delighted.”
The fish passage project is located in the Lincoln Crossing Nature Preserve just downstream from Highway 65. Water began flowing through the reconfigured stream bed last week, while work continues along the stream banks and in surrounding areas.
The fish passage project is a collaborative effort. Funding includes $545,000 from NID, $303, 000 from the Cal-Fed Watershed Program, $50,000 from the County of Placer, $52,000 from the Dry Creek Conservancy and $10,000 from the Granite Bay Flycasters.
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